The European Commission has expressed serious concern over persistent cases of torture and mistreatment in Ukraine’s prison system. In its latest report assessing Ukraine’s readiness to join the European Union, Brussels acknowledged some improvements but noted that the overall human rights situation remains deeply troubling.

According to the document, certain detention facilities have seen better legal safeguards and improved living conditions. The State Bureau of Investigation has also been given expanded powers to look into reports of torture and abuse.

However, the Commission emphasized that torture and cruel treatment continue to be a major concern within Ukraine’s penitentiary system. The report underscored that investigations and prosecutions related to such cases must be both swift and effective to ensure accountability.

Despite these issues, the European Commission reaffirmed its political support for Kyiv’s ambition to conclude EU accession negotiations by the end of 2028. Officials in Brussels hope that substantive talks on membership can begin before the end of this year.

The report notes that Ukraine has already met the requirements to open three negotiation clusters — covering fundamental principles, the internal market, and external relations. The Commission added that it expects Kyiv to fulfill the remaining conditions soon, allowing the EU Council to open all clusters by year’s end.